At least four in 10 Irish adults are unhappy with the appearance of their teeth when they smile, a new survey has found.

According to the survey, which was commissioned by the Orthodontic Society of Ireland (OSI), 43% of Irish adults are unhappy with their teeth when they smile and this figure rises to 48% among 18-24 year olds.

Orthodontics is a specialised branch of dentistry that aims to improve the appearance and position of the teeth and jaw bones. The aim is to produce better functioning teeth and a more attractive smile and this is done using braces.

While orthodontics is most commonly associated with children, 35% of all cases seen by orthodontists actually involve adults.

The survey found that 63% of young adults would consider having some form of orthodontic treatment to improve the alignment and appearance of their teeth.

Furthermore, of those who would consider this type of treatment, 42% believe it would benefit their appearance, 36% believe it would benefit oral health and function and 21% believe it would improve their self-esteem.

Commenting on the findings of the survey, OSI president, Dr Owen Crotty, said that international evidence already suggests that about one-third of children assessed at the age of 12 have a ‘significant need for orthodontics'.

"Now this survey shows that 43% of Irish adults are unhappy with the alignment and appearance of their teeth. These findings back up evidence from Irish orthodontists who have experienced a significant increase in enquiries from adults who may not have had an opportunity to correct their bite and smile earlier in life," he said.

He added that this reflects both a change in attitude towards the role that orthodontics can play in enhancing personal appearance, as well as advances in treatment techniques.

The survey was commissioned ahead of the first annual national orthodontic awareness campaign, which will run from April 11-15. The 'Love Your Smile' campaign will highlight how an orthodontist is best qualified to diagnose, prevent and treat any problems with the appearance and alignment of teeth and jaws.